TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Hurricane Milton is rapidly approaching Florida’s west coast, prompting urgent evacuations as officials warn of potentially catastrophic impacts. With millions ordered to flee, some residents are defiantly choosing to stay, raising concerns about their safety amid predictions of widespread destruction.
The Tampa Bay area, home to over 3.3 million residents, has avoided direct hits from major hurricanes for more than a century. However, the National Hurricane Center reported that Milton, a powerful Category 5 hurricane at its peak, is expected to make landfall late Wednesday as a major hurricane. Early Wednesday, Milton was located about 360 miles (580 kilometers) southwest of Tampa, with maximum sustained winds reaching 160 mph (260 km/h).
Forecasters indicate that Milton will maintain hurricane strength as it moves across central Florida on Thursday, heading east toward the Atlantic Ocean. The precise track of the hurricane remains uncertain, with updates suggesting a slightly southern path away from Tampa.
As evacuation efforts ramped up, Florida’s highways became congested with thousands of cars fleeing the impending storm. Tampa Mayor Jane Castor highlighted the grave danger posed by the storm surge, which is expected to reach up to 15 feet (4.5 meters). “So if you’re in it, basically that’s the coffin that you’re in,” she warned, emphasizing the life-threatening conditions residents could face.
The impending storm threatens communities still recovering from Hurricane Helene, which recently wreaked havoc across western Florida, leaving at least 230 dead in its wake. In Punta Gorda, about 100 miles (160 kilometers) south of Tampa, streets remain cluttered with debris from the earlier hurricane, with piles of soaked furniture and personal belongings lining the roads.
Scott Joiner, a resident who chose to stay in his New Orleans-style home, described the eerie aftermath of Hurricane Helene, stating that bull sharks were seen swimming in flooded streets. Joiner expressed his determination to ride out Milton, despite the risks involved. “Water is a blessing to have,” he remarked, “but it is very deadly.”
Mandatory evacuation orders have been issued across 11 Florida counties, affecting a population of approximately 5.9 million residents, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates. Authorities have made it clear that those who choose to remain must prepare to fend for themselves, as first responders will not attempt rescues during the height of the storm.
In Riverview, south of Tampa, some residents expressed their decision to stay put, citing preparations made for the storm. Martin Oakes, a driver in line for fuel, indicated his intent to “tough it out.” He reassured, “We got shutters up. The house is all ready. So this is sort of the last piece of the puzzle.”
Conversely, other residents are opting for caution after experiencing the devastation caused by Helene. On Anna Maria Island, Evan Purcell packed essentials, including his father’s ashes, as he prepared to evacuate. Having suffered significant damage from Helene, Purcell is anxious about Milton’s potential impact. “I’m still in shock over the first one and here comes round two,” he said, expressing his apprehension.
State and local governments have been proactive in clearing debris left behind by Hurricane Helene, fearing that loose wreckage could become dangerous projectiles in the oncoming storm. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced the deployment of over 300 dump trucks, which have already removed 1,300 loads of debris from affected areas.
While Hurricane Milton bears down on Florida, its impact has been felt in Mexico as well. Authorities in the state of Yucatán reported minor damage as the storm passed just offshore. Yucatán Governor Joaquín Díaz stated that power lines, light poles, and trees were downed near the coast, and some small structures were destroyed, but there were no reported deaths or injuries.
As Hurricane Milton continues its relentless advance, officials remain on high alert, urging residents to heed evacuation orders and prioritize their safety. The situation remains fluid, with updates expected as the storm progresses. With memories of past hurricanes fresh in residents’ minds, the tension in Florida is palpable as the state braces for another potentially devastating storm.
Spencer reported from Fort Myers Beach, with contributions from Associated Press writers Curt Anderson and Kate Payne in Tampa; Freida Frisaro in Fort Lauderdale; Russ Bynum in Savannah, Georgia; Seth Borenstein in Washington; and Mark Stevenson in Mexico City.
